Bright plans for the future

WELCOMING FEEDBACK: From left: Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board chairman Peter Skelton, councillor Alf Filipaina and local board members Carrol Elliott, Lydia Sosene and Tafafuna’i Tasi Lauese are encouraging everyone to have their say on the area’s future.

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A new town hub for Favona, community centre in Mangere East and apartment blocks in Otahuhu are just some of the changes these communities could see in the future.

That's according to the draft Mangere-Otahuhu area plan released last week by Auckland Council.

The draft, a collaboration between the council, Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board and key stakeholders, aims to outline the ways in which the area could change over the next 30 years.

The draft is the first of its kind to be released and will soon be joined by 20 others, representing the other local board areas in the Auckland region.

Key aims include a rail link to the airport, improved water quality and an increased focus on the area's unique environmental features, like the Otuataua Stonefields and Mangere Mountain.

Public feedback is now being sought and everyone is encouraged to have a say.

Board member Lydia Sosene says it is especially important that youth from the area view the draft and give their feedback.

"We've got to engage our young people because we're planning for them."

Board chairman Peter Skelton hopes "as many people as possible" let them know how the plan can be improved.

"They have to have a say because if you don't have a say, don't complain. This is about your kids' future."

❏ Feedback on the draft Mangere-Otahuhu Area Plan is open until September 28.

❏ The draft and a feedback form are available from libraries, Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board office and on request by calling 301 0101 or by emailing areaplans@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or visiting the website aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/areaplans.

The draft will also be presented at public locations around the Mangere-Otahuhu area over the next month. Information about the events can be found on the council website or in libraries.